The Minnesota Vikings made it a mission to bolster their offensive line this offseason, bringing in three interior offensive linemen. Highlighting one of the players the front office signed was former Indianapolis Colts right guard Will Fries, on a five-year deal worth $88 million. Fries was having a breakout fourth season before an injury prematurely ended it.
Also Read: Minnesota Vikings: Bolster Offensive Line, Add Top Guard
Minnesota Vikings newcomer still dealing with injury
Indianapolis Colts, Will Fries
Aug 13, 2022; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Indianapolis Colts guard Will Fries (75) prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Will Fries suffered a season-ending fractured right tibia in Week 5, an injury that typically takes four to ten months to recover from, depending on the severity. As a result, Fries hasn’t participated in spring workouts or the start of voluntary OTAs as he continues to work off to the side in a non-contact, limited capacity. The Vikings have two more practice sessions this week, followed by mandatory minicamp next week, and will wrap up the spring with one final week of OTAs in two weeks.
Minnesota Vikings on guard’s recovery
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Aug 13, 2022; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Will Fries (75) leaves the field after a pre-season game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
During last week’s press conference, via Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated, Kevin O’Connell provided an injury update on Will Fries. O’Connell said the team is “being really smart” with handling his recovery, ensuring he doesn’t aggravate it. He doesn’t expect Fries to participate at full capacity for the rest of spring practices, but he should once training camp begins in mid-July.
“We’re being really smart, just with the injury that it was and once we were able to get him in and get a feel for that,” O’Connell said, via Ragatz. “Knowing how we handle the spring, I don’t know if we’ll see him fully active this spring, but I have no hesitation to say that I’m really excited to see him when he’s able to get out there. More than likely training camp, but there’s still a chance we could see him in some bits and pieces of work over the next two weeks. But he’s in a good spot.”
Who replaces him for the time being?
Minnesota Vikings, Blake Brandel
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings guard Blake Brandel (64) against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Due to rookie Donovan Jackson taking over at left guard and Will Fries missing the spring, Blake Brandel has received first-team reps at right guard. After a minimal role on offense in his first four seasons, Brandel took over as the starting left guard during his fifth season, starting every game and playing every snap. He is expected to be the Vikings’ swing guard in his sixth season.
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